An alluring example of the Bunsei Koban, featuring a nice patina with hints of color on the reverse. Chopmarks are found on the vast majority of Koban from this era, and this example is no exception, although there are only a few non-distracting marks on the reverse. These large, distinctively shaped gold coins are the epitome of Japanese Edo period currency.
Note that the fine hairlines on this (and all standard Koban) are a result of the minting process. One of the final stages of the minting process was to polish them with river water, which allowed fine sand to create these hairlines. PCGS and other graders do not consider this cleaning or scratches.
